Uber finally launches native Windows Phone app

Uber has at last re-launched its Windows Phone app after it was pulled last year.

In 2013, the official Uber app was withdrawn from the Windows Phone Store after customers realised the app simply offered access to Uber's mobile site.

The San-Francisco based firm said: "Previously, Windows Phone users accessed Uber through our mobile site, but starting today, users can connect through a native app that is optimised for the Windows Phone platform and reflects the complete Uber experience."

The Uber Windows Phone app can now be downloaded from the Windows Phone store. Furthermore, the company is offering Lumia users two free rides.

The addition of the Uber app to the Windows Phone Store will be welcome news to Microsoft, which has been found lacking in apps when compared to iPhones and Android devices.

Yesterday, the German city of Hamburg became the latest to try and ban smartphone taxi app services, with an injunction being issued by Hamburg's transport office against UberPop. The Hamburg authorities said UberPop drivers required special licenses to carry passengers, according to Reuters.

Should drivers continue to offer their services they could be faced with fines of £791. The decision marks the latest in a string of burdensome bans and regulations placed on Uber by European cities.

After a strong lobbying campaign by French taxi unions, Uber was subjected to the "15-minute" law, which requires taxi app drivers to wait 15 minutes after customers place a booking to pick them up.

In April, a Belgium court ruling found Uber's operations illegal and threatned heavy fines should the service continue to operate. Uber is available in over 150 cities in 41 countries.